Are You Using These 6 Essential Digital Marketing Strategies to Capture Online Customers?
Attracting new customers online is essential for small businesses in today’s digital-first world. But with so many strategies out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed—especially if you’re just starting out (and even if you’re not). That’s why we’ve created this handy roadmap to help you build a powerful online presence that draws in your ideal customers, even if digital marketing is new to you.
Let’s get started with these 6 essential steps to help your business show up, stand out, and succeed.
Step 1: Get Listed on Key Directories
Why Online Directories Matter:
Imagine a customer in your area searching for the exact services you offer. You want them to find you first, right? Getting your business listed on major online directories like Google My Business and Yelp is an essential first step. These listings increase your visibility in local searches and help new customers discover your business quickly. It is important to note that there are many other industry specific listing sites that businesses should have profiles on. Are you a restaurant? Consider OpenTable. Interior designer? Don’t forget about Houzz.
| Get Our Guide: Set Up Your Google Business Profile Like A Boss (Step-By-Step)
Best Practices for Online Listings
Complete Your Profile: Fill out every detail—business name, address, hours, phone number, and website link.
Add High-Quality Photos: Visuals make a big difference! Showcase your business, products, or even a happy customer moment.
Stay Consistent: Ensure your business information is consistent across all directories. This boosts credibility and helps with SEO.
Need help setting up or optimizing your listings? Explore our digital marketing services at Aviso Studios for expert support.
Step 2: Set Up an SEO-Friendly Website
Why Your Website Matters:
With very few exceptions, every business abso-freakin-lutely should have a website. Your website is the hub of your online presence—it’s where potential customers go to learn more, see what you offer, and hopefully become paying clients. But here’s the thing, if your site isn’t optimized for search engines (SEO), you’re missing out on valuable traffic and likely just taking up space in a sad little corner of the internet collecting dust.
How to Build an SEO-Friendly Website
Use Targeted Keywords: Research and include keywords relevant to your business. Tools like Google Keyword Planner make it easy to find the terms your customers are searching for.
Optimize Titles and Meta Descriptions: These are prime real estate for keywords! Make sure every page on your site has a unique, keyword-rich title and description.
Add Fresh Content: Regularly updated content, like blog posts, not only keeps customers engaged but also signals to search engines that your site is active. Consider creating posts that answer common customer questions or showcase your expertise.
Don’t have a website or not sure if it is SEO optimized? We gotchu.
Step 3: Encourage Positive Reviews
Why Reviews Matter:
If we’re being honest, we totally buy things based on who has the most five star reviews. And we’re not the only ones. Did you know that 84% of people trust online reviews as much as a personal recommendation? Good reviews build credibility and help new customers feel confident choosing you.
How to Get More Reviews
Ask Happy Customers Directly: After a positive experience, encourage customers to leave a review. A simple ask can go a long way!
Offer a Small Incentive (If Allowed): Consider offering a discount or small reward for leaving honest feedback. Just make sure it’s within the guidelines of each platform.
Engage with Reviews: This is SO IMPORTANT for the algorithm (ahem, Google). Respond to every review—thank your supporters and address any concerns from less-than-happy customers. This shows you’re attentive and care about customer feedback.
Step 4: Establish and Optimize Your Social Media Presence
Why Social Media is Essential:
Social media is a powerful way to connect with potential customers, showcase your brand’s personality, and build lasting loyalty. Not only does it create a platform for you to interact with your audience, but it also increases your brand’s visibility online.
Choosing the Right Platforms
Start with one or two platforms where your audience is most active. Here’s a quick guide:
Instagram for visually driven businesses like retail, restaurants, or art.
LinkedIn if you’re a B2B business, consultant, or in a professional services industry.
Best Practices for Social Media
Post Consistently: You don’t need to post daily, but showing up regularly keeps you on your audience’s radar.
Engage with Your Audience: Reply to comments, answer questions, and create a sense of community. Social media is a two-way conversation that builds brand loyalty.
Use High-Quality Visuals: Eye-catching visuals help your brand stand out and convey professionalism. Need professional help? Check out our social media services.
Optimize Your Profiles for SEO
Use Keywords in Bios and Descriptions: Incorporate industry-related keywords in your bio or description to help people find you when searching on platforms like Instagram or LinkedIn.
Add Location Information: If you serve a local area, include your location in your bio to improve local visibility.
Link to Your Website: Drive traffic from social media to your main website by adding your URL in your profile bio.
Click the image above to get our step-by-step process for setting up and optimizing your Instagram profile.
Step 5: Present a Cohesive Brand Across Platforms
Consistency Builds Trust:
A cohesive, recognizable brand makes you look polished and professional. Customers are more likely to remember and trust brands that show up consistently.
Creating a Cohesive Brand Look
Use Consistent Visuals: Colors, logos, and fonts should be uniform across all platforms. This helps customers recognize your brand instantly.
Maintain a Steady Brand Voice: Decide if your tone is friendly, professional, playful, etc., and reflect it across all content.
Create Branded Content for Social Media: Branded graphics and templates help make your posts feel professional and visually consistent.
Need a hand developing your brand look and voice? Learn more about our branding services at Aviso Studios.
Final Thoughts: Putting It All Together
Building an online presence to attract new customers doesn’t have to feel intimidating. With this roadmap, you have the essential steps to boost your visibility, connect with customers, and start growing your business online.
Whether it’s building and optimizing your website for search, staying consistent on social media, or getting listed on key directories, each of these steps adds a piece to the puzzle of a strong, successful online presence. Stick with it, and you’ll see results!
